Digest for 17 July, 2025
Over 60 Killed in Massive Iraq Mall Fire
A devastating fire in a newly opened mall in Kut, eastern Iraq, has killed at least 61 people, with many dying from suffocation. The blaze, which broke out late Wednesday in the five-story building, also left over 45 people injured. Officials have declared three days of mourning and filed legal cases against the building and mall owners. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about poor building standards in Iraq, which have contributed to several deadly fires in recent years.
Israel Strikes Damascus Amid Clashes in Southern Syria
Israel has launched rare airstrikes in Damascus, including near the Syrian Defence Ministry, escalating its intervention in southern Syria. The strikes follow days of deadly clashes between Syrian government forces and armed groups from the Druze minority in Sweida province. Israel stated its actions are intended to protect the Druze community and push Islamic militants from its border. The conflict threatens the stability of Syria's new post-war government, with a ceasefire announced Wednesday after a previous one quickly collapsed.
CBI Secures Return of 134 Fugitives in 5 Years, Nearly Doubling Previous Decade's Total
India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has facilitated the return of 134 fugitives from abroad since 2020, a sharp increase from the 74 repatriated between 2010 and 2019. Officials attribute the success to enhanced diplomatic engagement, improved international coordination through Interpol, and new technology like the 'Bharatpol' digital portal, which has cut Red Notice issuance times by half. A recent success includes the arrest of Nehal Modi, brother of fugitive diamantaire Nirav Modi, in the U.S. for extradition proceedings.
Bihar Government Announces 125 Units of Free Electricity Ahead of Polls
In a major populist move ahead of Assembly elections, Bihar's government has announced it will provide up to 125 units of free electricity per month to all domestic consumers. The policy, set to benefit an estimated 1.67 crore households, will take effect from August 1, applying to bills from July. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also announced plans to promote solar power, aiming to produce 10,000 MW in the next three years, including installing solar panels on homes.
Government to Introduce Eight New Bills in Parliament's Monsoon Session
The Indian government plans to introduce eight new bills during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, which begins July 21. Key legislation includes the National Sports Governance Bill, which aims to make sports administrators more accountable, and the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill. Other significant proposals are the Geo-heritage Sites and Geo-relics (Preservation and Maintenance) Bill and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, aimed at improving the ease of doing business.